1 Program Definition and Services
Respite Care Services in Georgia provide brief periods of support or relief for caregivers of individuals with disabilities. These services may be planned, scheduled, or used in emergency/crisis situations. Services can be provided in various settings, including:
- The individual's own or family home
- Outside the individual's home
- In a private residence of a Respite Services provider
- In a licensed Personal Care Home.
2. Regulations
Respite Care Services in Georgia are governed by the Division of Developmental Disabilities under the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD). The specific regulations can be found in the Georgia Administrative Code (GAC) Subject 111-8-62 PERSONAL CARE HOMES.
3. Licensing or Certification
A license is required to operate as a Respite Care Services provider in Georgia. The governing body of each personal care home must obtain a valid permit from the Department prior to operating.
4. Responsible State Agency
The Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) is responsible for issuing the required license for Respite Care Services providers.
5. Application Process
The application process for becoming a Respite Care Services provider in Georgia is conducted through the Georgia Department of Community Health. While the exact process is not specified, it typically involves submitting an application along with required documentation.
6. Required Documentation
The following documents are typically required for the application:
- Business formation documents
- Proof of insurance
- Background check results for employee
- National Provider Identifier (NPI) number
- Compliance documentation with state regulations
- Proof of staff training and qualifications.
7. Timeline for Approval
The specific timeline for approval is not mentioned. However, the process involves multiple steps, including application submission, document review, and inspections, which can take several weeks to months.
8. Pre-Application Process
While not explicitly stated, providers must ensure they meet all state requirements before applying. This includes forming a business entity, obtaining an NPI number, and ensuring compliance with state regulations
9. Pre-Application Training
There is no specific pre-application training. However, providers must ensure their staff meets training requirements, which may include:
- 40 hours of core training for in-home respite assistants
- 20 hours of training before assistants begin working with clients.
10. Additional Notes
- Providers must maintain accurate administrative, fiscal, personnel, and client case records.
- All prospective employees must be screened through the state criminal records investigation process.
- Providers must develop and implement policies and procedures for service agreements.
- Respite services must be authorized prior to service delivery and reflected in the Individual Service Plan (ISP).
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